Pros and Cons of Electric Semi Trucks

Gasoline and diesel have become ‘dirty’ words in recent years. Many governments worldwide plan to phase out fuel-powered vehicles in favor of electric-powered models.

In a few short years, tens of thousands of people have jumped on the bandwagon and purchased electric cars to reduce their carbon footprint. However, most truck drivers never thought that electric semi trucks would be the way of the future.

While there is still a long way to go before battery technology is at its peak, many truck owners and enterprise trucking companies are taking the leap and investing in electric trucks. If you’re not yet convinced that an electric truck is right for your business, consider these pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Pro: Zero Emissions

We’re already making massive progress concerning reduced emissions in fuel-powered semi trucks, but electric semi trucks take that progress one step further. Electric semi trucks are emission-free, meaning there could be a significant reduction in greenhouse gases if more truck companies invested in electric semi trucks.

According to the American Lung Association, zero-emission trucks could result in more than 66,000 fewer premature deaths, 8.5 million fewer lost work days and $735 billion in public health benefits from cleaner air.

Con: Limited Range

While electric vehicle batteries are far better than they once were, they still go flat. You can’t just pull up at a fuel station and add more diesel to get back on the road. Instead, you have to wait for your batteries to charge.

Due to this significant disadvantage, truck drivers on a tight schedule and in rural areas where few charging stations are available might not be in a hurry to purchase electric trucks.

Pro: Less Noise

The average diesel-powered semi truck is loud, with a truck traveling 40 miles an hour producing around 84 decibels. Yet, prolonged noise above 70 decibels is enough to damage our hearing. Electric trucks are much quieter without a diesel engine to make all that noise.

Both truck drivers and homeowners in proximity to major highways are bound to appreciate reduced noise on the road with electric semi trucks.

Con: Temperature Challenges

Batteries don’t like adverse temperatures, yet truck drivers must drive in hot and cold environments. Extreme temperatures on either end of the spectrum can affect the ability of batteries to recharge and discharge normally. While there’s potential for this problem to be fixed in the future, it can be worth considering before investing in a new electric semi truck.

Pro: Lower Operating Costs

Purchasing an electric semi truck is expensive, with some models being in excess of $300,000 to buy new, compared to approximately $100,000 for a low-end semi truck and $200,000 for a high-end model.

However, these costs might be offset by lower operating costs. Studies have shown that the average cost of electric semi truck ownership can be 13% less than its diesel-powered counterpart, with only a 3% payload capacity reduction. Not only do you no longer have to pay for diesel but there are generally fewer maintenance costs to consider.

Con: Limited Truck Choices

The diesel semi truck market is abundant, with many different makes and models available from leading manufacturers. Truck drivers enjoy knowing that if they don’t like one model, they can purchase another.

While the electric semi truck market is growing, it’s still limited. Many leading manufacturers like Kenworth, Volvo, and Freightliner have jumped on board, but there are fewer models to choose from. 

Sell Your Semi Truck to TruckVin Today

Now that you’re aware of some of the most prominent pros and cons associated with electric semi truck ownership, you can make an informed purchasing decision. That might involve selling your diesel-powered semi truck and switching to electric or simply upgrading to another diesel model.

Whether you have a Freightliner, a Kenworth, Peterbilt, or another semi truck, now might be the right time to consider your sales options. TruckVin is proud to offer a fast, stress-free, straightforward sales process for all busy truck drivers and business owners.

TruckVin is America’s Foremost Truck Buyer! As a trusted partner to thousands of fleets across the nation, you can rest assured we’re professionals when it comes time to divest your assets.

About Us

Get In Touch

© 2024 TruckVin. All rights & content reserved.  Privacy Policy

Designed By Digital Drew SEM

Disclaimer

We’re Currently ONLY Purchasing:

2020 & Newer

Under 450K Miles

Daycab, Dump Trucks, and Sleepers Only